Vauxhall Vectra Estate (2003 - 2005) 1.9 CDTi 16V SRi (150ps) 5d (Sat Nav) (2005/05) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

This model is metallic black, with SRI trim, and came with full privacy glass - some friends have dubbed it the gangster car, but I hope they don't cast me in the same light.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Family love being in the car on long journeys- regularly between north Scotland and SE England. Very smooth drive, and easy to fall asleep (in the back)

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes - owning this has completely changed my view of Vauxhalls - understated but utterly competent and a pleasure to drive.

What are you likely to buy next?

Would consider the same, as its been such a great used buy.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£7,400

When did you buy the car?

May 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Went to the auction in Chelmsford, Essex looking for a diesel estate. This was ex lease - 2 years, 60k, fsh, new tyres. About £2k off the forecourt price - I'd call that a bargain.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Moving from 10 years of pampered corporate motoring meant I had to find something in the risky world of the private motorist...so I went to an auction.

What was the dealer like?

Researched the auction route thoroughly before going to buy. This particular auctioneer is very large, with one sales hall solely for ex lease. Service was very efficient.

What's it like to drive?

Thoroughly competent at any road and task you give it. The 150PS engine with the 6 speed box works effortlessly, but still gives 48mpg.

What's it like to park?

Manoeuvrable but this is a very long car, so have considered fitting parking sensors, as visibility isn't great when reversing.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Had faulty fuel guage when I bought it, fixed for about £100 at local independent garage. Otherwise absolutely fine over the 20k I've driven in the past year.

What's most practical about your car?

Massive capacity for 5 and loads of luggage. Surpisingly quick.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

No one option, but all the items on this model - and there are a few - work together very well.